In a shocking move, the Cincinnati Reds have hit a home run after securing a new deal with Main Street Sports Group, the parent company of FanDuel Sports Network, to keep local broadcasts on FanDuel Sports Ohio.
Late last year, it was reported that the MLB franchise sold its stake in the former Bally Sports Ohio and would be looking for a new TV partner to produce their local games. After the Reds sold their stake, MLB Media was expected to handle the team’s in-market production. However, with the latest announcement, Reds fans can continue to watch their games on the same network they are used to. Additionally, the network and team will collaborate to launch a direct-to-consumer streaming app.
“Our top priority is to make sure Reds games are accessible to our fans,” said Doug Healy, Reds Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. “The decision to stay with FanDuel Sports Network provides continuity for our fans to watch Reds games as in previous seasons, and now with a direct-to-consumer streaming product available through the FanDuel Sports Network app.”
Formerly known as Diamond Sports Group, the company changed its name to Main Street Sports Group after it emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company is home to FanDuel Sports Network which broadcasts over 20 MLB, NHL, and NBA teams across the country. These networks are available for direct-to-consumer subscriptions and Prime subscribers will have access to add-on their favorite teams via the FanDuel Sports Network channel.
Healy stated that pricing and subscriptions for the Reds DTC streaming app will be announced in the near future. In other FanDuel Sports Network markets, the platform offers subscribers a monthly, season, and yearly subscription. Lastly, single-game pricing was the latest addition that FDSN offered viewers.
“We are eager to continue our partnership with the Reds and look forward to collaborating with them to elevate the fan experience,” said David DeVoe, COO and CFO, Main Street Sports. “With our best-in-class partnerships, cutting-edge technology and highly skilled production team, we remain committed to delivering high quality viewing options to local fans. We are confident that our recent agreements and reimagined business model position us to best serve our partners. We are appreciative of the support from both Major League Baseball and the Reds.”
Outside of -nationally exclusive games, Reds fans will be able to tune into live in-market games, and a selection of Spring Training exhibition games, via cable and satellite providers and streaming on FanDuel Sports Ohio. The TV deal also includes a 30-minute pre and postgame show.
“Major League Baseball has been an incredible resource for all the Clubs navigating the complexities of the rapidly changing media landscape,” said Phil Castellini, Reds President and CEO. “The Reds are extremely grateful to Commissioner Manfred and Major League Baseball for their continued support and collaboration.”
The team has yet to announce the broadcasting crew for the upcoming season, but Healy said, “It’s always been our intention to retain as many members of our on-air talent in 2025. The reason is to keep the broadcast familiar with our fans.”